Rafael Benitez 99% certain to be Real Madrid coach: Club President

Madrid: Upon sacking Carlo Ancelotti as Real Madrid coach, club president Florentino Perez was asked by the press if the new coach would be a native speaker.

Rafael Benitez

Perez said it "would be very good if he speaks Spanish." That confirmation has eliminated any doubt that remained among the Spanish media that the next man to face the task of living up to Perez's highest of standards will be current Napoli boss Rafael Benitez (55).

Benitez is expected to take charge of his final game at the Stadio San Paolo before his contract expires on Sunday when Napoli host Lazio in a playoff for the third Champions League spot in Serie A.